Buying a puppy for the first time is exciting but there are a few things you need to consider when choosing the right puppy for you.
Breed
Choosing the right breed for your lifestyle is very important and it's one thing people may forget when they're looking for a dog! For example, if you don't have time for a high energy dog who needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy try avoiding these breeds. Certain dogs were bred for reasons, Border Collie's were bred for herding sheep therefore they tend to have a lot of energy and wouldn't work if you only had time to take them out once a day.
Be Prepared
If you know you're aiming to get a puppy in the next few months try and buy all necessities that the puppy will need when bringing them home for the first night. Here's a check list of things to have ready for your new puppy.
Bedding/Crate
Water & Food Bowl
Food
Training Treats
Different Selection of Toys
What to Ask the Breeder
Can I see the litter with the mum?
Seeing the mum is an absolute must, breeders don't tend to have the dad due to using a stud but they will have the mum. The mum will play a big role in how your dog will turn out, if the mum is aggressive and barking then most likely the litter will be the same. You need to look out of good temperament from the mum and see her interacting with the litter.
Have they been vaccinated?
Most breeders will sell the puppies with their 1st vaccination (done at 6-9 weeks) but if they haven't it's not a problem. Just remember you can't take them out in public until they've had their 2nd vaccination.
Has the puppy been wormed?
All puppies are born with worms and should be wormed from 2 weeks old.
Is the puppy microchipped?
It's now a legal requirement for a breeder to microchip all the litter before selling them.
What food to feed them?
A breeder should give you a small supply of food they've been feeding them so if you decide to change you can transition the food over slowly to avoid a poorly tummy.
Can I take something home that has scent on?
The first few nights away from their mum can be the hardest so having a scent with them from their old home will make it easier for them to settle in.
Do you have a copy of hip score for both mum and dad?
This doesn't apply to all breeds but if you're buying a Labrador or GSD it's very important to ask as hip dysplasia is common in the breeds and can lead into a life of surgeries and pain.
Number one rule is to trust your instinct, if you think something is off just leave.
Socialisation
Socialisation is very important and needs to start asap. If you have friends or family with well tempered dogs who are fully vaccinated let them come round with their dogs so your new puppy builds their confidence up young. Introducing them to new sounds, for example: cars, busy traffic, car horn, door bell, hoover, doors slamming, livestock this will help them to not fear these things when they grow up. Treat rewarding them along with these sounds is important for them to learn that all these new noises are a positive thing and not something to be scared of.
Thank you for reading my tips, I hope I've helped you prepare for your new addition to the family!
Gracie's Dog Walking Service